Report on Successful Capital Defender’s Training

Dear Justice Defenders,

I hope this message finds you well. I am pleased to share a summary of the recent Capital Defenders Training. The conference, held at Eka Hotel, Eldoret, from 6^th to 8^th December 2023, was made possible through the generous funding of the Makwanyane Institute Stewardship Grant – the Cornell Law School, Oduor Munyua and Gerald Attorneys at Law LLP, and CELSIR.

Overview
Working as a capital defence counsel is so difficult and very few people understand, appreciate and commiserate the work that capital defenders do. This training provided a platform for capital defenders to network and form a hub where peer-to-peer partnerships, mentorship and opportunity sharing can take place for the overall improvement of capital defence work in Kenya, and Africa as a region.

Key Highlights

1. Objective of the training: The training aimed to empower capital defenders in Kenya and capacitate them with critical legal advocacy skills and knowhow for the overall improvement of capital defence work.
2. Diverse Perspectives: The training brought together legal experts, specialists, and stakeholders dedicated to fostering positive change within the criminal justice system. The event featured a diverse range of expert trainers in mental health and other relevant and contemporary legal fields.
3. In-Depth Sessions: Participants engaged in thought-provoking sessions exploring legal strategies, and collaborative approaches to support inmates facing capital punishment. The interactive training facilitated knowledge sharing and networking among attendees.
4. Prison visit: The training included a visit to the Eldoret Main Prison on 7/12/2023 where trainees interacted with over 275 capital prison inmates – both convicts and remandees. The main aim of this was to encourage the trainees to engage with capital offenders/persons charged with capital offences firsthand as a practical exercise for them. In some instances, the trainees were able to take on cases of capital nature which CELSIR will support tactically and financially.
5. Networking Opportunities: Attendees had the chance to connect with like-minded professionals, fostering valuable collaborations and partnerships for future initiatives in advancing criminal justice.
6. Makwanyane Institute Stewardship Grant Impact: The grant ensured the success of the training through supporting logistics, speaker invitations, and participant accommodations. This partnership underscores the commitment of Makwanyane Institute Stewardship Grant to advance the cause of criminal justice and empower legal practitioners in Kenya (and Africa as a region).

Gratitude
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Makwanyane Institute for their unwavering support and commitment to training new generation of lawyers across the globe and promoting international human rights standards in the use of capital punishment. Additionally, our appreciation goes out to all the trainers, trainees, and volunteers who contributed to the success of this event.

Future Steps
This training was one of a kind in Kenya. We argue the first of its kind ever, focusing on developing the capacities of practicing advocates of capital criminal law. The success of the training has laid the groundwork for ongoing efforts in empowerment of legal practitioners. We are dedicated to leverage on the momentum generated to further advocate for positive change within the criminal justice system.

Stay Connected
For ongoing updates and opportunities to contribute to the cause, please stay connected on our website and social pages.

Thank you for your continued support.

Anne Munyua,
Founder and Executive Director,
Celsir Africa